noun + preposition — need for, solution to, cause of (GiU Unit 129)
The frame
Section titled “The frame”I don’t think there is any need for a new road. ✓
Fixed pairs (Unit 129)
Section titled “Fixed pairs (Unit 129)”| noun | preposition | example |
|---|---|---|
| need | for | a need for a new road |
| solution | to | a solution to the problem |
| answer | to | an answer to the question |
| cause | of | the cause of the accident |
| difference | between | the difference between them |
| increase | in | an increase in prices |
| decrease | in | a decrease in sales |
| relationship | with (between) | a relationship with her mother |
| reason | for | the reason for the delay |
| damage | to | damage to the car |
| reply | to | a reply to my letter |
Why learners slip
Section titled “Why learners slip”The verb and the noun often take different prepositions:
- need (verb) + object, no prep: We need a road
- need (noun) + for: a need for a road
- increase (verb) + object: Prices increased; increase (noun) + in
Use the noun slot as the trigger. Reconstruct: “a need for X” / “an answer to X” — never “need to/with/in”, “answer for X”.
Source
Section titled “Source”Raymond Murphy, English Grammar in Use, Unit 129 — Noun + preposition. Ebot lesson 2026-09-05.